The 11 for '11

GT SANCTION ONE

9 / 11

PRICE: $5,350 WEIGHT: 34.4 lb. (M, claimed) INFO:gtbicycles.com
After a one-year absence, the Sanction is back as an enduro-style all-mountain bike that's better equipped for pedaling than its forefathers, thanks to a reduction in weight and smart component upgrades. » Anyone doubting this bike's climbing pedigree need look only at the shock. In place of the heavier Fox RC4 air shock of the past is the new Fox RP23, which is nearly as plush but weighs a half-pound less with a better pedaling platform. The updated Sanction also comes with an adjustable-height seatpost, tapered head tube and SRAM X0 2x9 setup with bashguard and chain guide. » A few brief test rides showed that the 150mm-travel bike is stiff, smooth and surprisingly nimble, especially on long, flowing, bermed descents. Though it tackled biggerhit stuff well (aided by a custom shock tune), it's obvious that the new Sanction is designed less for hucking and more for pedaling, railing corners and ripping down steep, technical trails.

Why: Downhill prowess and pedal-friendly lightness come in one package